Mom

Hearing Dad, a man who commanded immense authority across the supernatural world, take personal responsibility and apologize to her made Val's breath catch in her throat.

She frantically shook her head, her free hand waving in the air as she tried to stop him. "No! Please, Lord Julian! You must not apologize! Neither of you have done anything wrong! Please do not blame yourselves."

Val took a sharp, shaky breath, trying to steady the sudden swell of emotion in her chest. She looked between Dad and Mom, her deep violet eyes clear and remarkably honest.